What are the responsibilities and job description for the Heavy Industrial Forklift Operator (50-ton plus) position at Smart Staffing LLC?
Job Title: Heavy Industrial Forklift Operator (70-Ton Capacity)
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and safety-conscious Heavy Industrial Forklift Operator to operate large-capacity (up to 70-ton) forklifts for handling oversized and heavy materials. This position is critical to supporting heavy industrial operations such as steel, port, mining, or construction yard logistics. The operator will be responsible for safely transporting, stacking, and staging heavy loads with precision and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operate 70-ton diesel-powered forklifts to load, unload, transport, and stack large and heavy materials such as steel beams, concrete segments, machinery, containers, or industrial components.
- Conduct pre- and post-operation inspections of forklift equipment, ensuring proper functioning and reporting any maintenance needs.
- Follow all safety protocols and site-specific procedures to minimize risk and ensure a safe working environment.
- Coordinate with yard supervisors, riggers, crane operators, and other logistics staff to plan and execute lifts and movements.
- Accurately document load movements, weights, and job logs as required.
- Perform basic preventive maintenance such as fueling, oil checks, and cleaning.
- Maintain awareness of surroundings, including ground conditions, overhead obstructions, and pedestrian traffic.
- Assist in securing loads with chains, straps, or blocks when required.
- Perform other general yard or warehouse duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
- Valid heavy equipment/forklift certification or license (required).
- Minimum 3–5 years of experience operating heavy-capacity forklifts (50-ton or greater) in an industrial or construction setting.
- Experience handling oversized, irregular, or high-value loads preferred.
- Strong knowledge of load charts, center of gravity, weight distribution, and safe lifting practices.
- Familiarity with OSHA safety standards and site-specific safety regulations.
Skills and Competencies:
- Excellent hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness.
- Strong communication skills for working in a team and following directions.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and during complex lifts.
- Commitment to maintaining a clean, safe, and organized work area.
- Mechanical aptitude is a plus.
Work Environment:
- Heavy industrial or outdoor environment (e.g., steel yards, ports, mines, or construction sites).
- Exposure to loud noise, dust, extreme weather, and large machinery.
- Requires wearing PPE including hard hat, steel-toe boots, gloves, and high-visibility clothing.
- Physical demands include sitting for long periods, climbing in and out of cabs, and handling tools or load securing gear.
Job Type: Temp-to-hire
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20